Understand

The coastal town of Collioure, known as the pearl of the Vermillion Coast, is a mesmerizing and enchanting destination that will transport you to a picture-perfect postcard scene. With its royal castle overlooking the sea, charming port filled with local boats, inviting pebbly beaches, and colorful old town adorned with vibrant facades, Collioure is a place that exudes beauty and charm. Don't forget to admire the iconic pink-domed bell tower that adds to the town's allure. You can enjoy breathtaking views from the chapel of Saint-Vincent Island, the esplanade at the foot of the castle, or the edges of the Pams gardens. Collioure is a city of art, offering culinary delights, the art of winemaking, and a plethora of pleasures to indulge in. Situated near the Spanish border, this charming French fishing village is a must-visit destination.

Collioure is the result of the merging of two nearby hamlets, which are separated by the majestic castle perched on high land. This town, with a population of over 2,000 residents, is renowned for being a tourist hub and the birthplace of fauvist art by Matisse. Make sure not to miss out on this incredible coastal gem! Although it draws crowds of tourists, fear not, as their presence cannot diminish the town's beauty and allure. However, it is advisable to plan your visit during the less crowded seasons. Thanks to the wonderful weather of southern France in spring and autumn, a leisurely stroll through the town becomes even more delightful between March and May, as well as September and October.

• Tourist Office of Collioure, Place du 18 Juin, 66190 Collioure, +33 468 821 547, [x].

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

The first popular French dish is Ratatouille, a colorful vegetable stew traditionally made with eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, onions, tomatoes, and seasoned with herbs such as thyme and basil. This hearty, non-meat dish is typically served alongside grilled meats or fish.

Another famous French dish is Coq au Vin, a braised chicken dish that originated in Burgundy. It involves marinating chicken pieces in red wine with mushrooms, bacon, onions, and garlic before slow-cooking them until tender and flavorful. The final dish is often garnished with parsley and served with potatoes, noodles, or bread.

Lastly, the iconic French dish, Croissants, are flaky, buttery pastries made from layers of laminated dough, which are then curved into a crescent shape and traditionally served for breakfast or as an afternoon snack. Although they are not typically a savory or sweet dish, croissants can be filled with various ingredients like ham and cheese (called a jambon-beurre) or almond paste and sugar (an almond croissant).

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing